Ha-Seong Kim Declines Braves Contract Offer
Middle infielder Ha-Seong Kim has decided to decline the Atlanta Braves’ contract offer, as reported by Jon Heyman of The New York Post. Kim will forgo a guaranteed salary of $16 million to explore options in the free agency market.
Background on Ha-Seong Kim’s Career
This decision comes as a disappointment but is not entirely unexpected for the Braves. Kim was claimed off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays at the beginning of September, as Atlanta aimed to secure their starting shortstop for the 2026 season. However, they ended up absorbing the remaining $2 million of Kim’s 2025 salary during a challenging season.
Braves’ Strategy and Current Situation
Alex Anthopoulos, the Braves’ president of baseball operations, expressed hope in September that acclimating Kim to the team would provide an advantage, should he choose to return. However, Nick Allen currently leads the depth chart at shortstop.
Injury Challenges and Performance
Kim enters free agency facing significant questions, having dealt with multiple injuries over the past year. He suffered a labrum tear in August, which required season-ending surgery. Consequently, the San Diego Padres opted not to issue him a qualifying offer, leading Kim to sign a two-year deal worth $29 million with the Rays.
His time in Tampa was marred by injuries, leading to a batting line of .214/.290/.321 across 24 games. This performance was disappointing for the Rays, who were relieved to let him go at the end of the season.
Stronger Performance with Atlanta
Kim’s brief stint with the Braves showed more promise. He played 24 games, hitting three home runs with a batting line of .253/.316/.368. Notably, Kim achieved a 10-game hitting streak mid-September, although his performance declined in the final week of the season, finishing with a .234/.304/.345 line over 191 plate appearances.
Free Agency Outlook
Despite his injuries, Kim’s representatives believe he can secure a multi-year contract more favorable than the Braves’ $16 million option. The current free agent market presents limited options for middle infielders, positioning Kim to be a sought-after player.
- Key Teams Interested in Kim:
- San Diego Padres
- San Francisco Giants
- Detroit Tigers
- Kansas City Royals
- Pittsburgh Pirates
- Milwaukee Brewers
Assuming Trevor Story remains with the Boston Red Sox, Kim could become the second-best shortstop available in free agency, following Bo Bichette. Given that the Braves cannot offer him qualifying compensation due to his midseason move, he is expected to attract significant interest from multiple clubs.
